Founder Issues

Fred Wilson venture capitalist and Co-Founder Union Square Ventures

“The Board Chair runs the Board of Directors [and] is a Board member with the same [] responsibilities as the other Board members. [He also ensures the Board functions:] [meeting regularly], [getting the CEO what he needs from the Board],[ensuring all members contribute], [and giving the CEO a single contact on various issues]. []

Small boards (three or less) don't really need Board Chairs. [] At [seven +], [Wilson] believe[s] it is critical to have a Board Chair.”

Although common, Wilson doesn’t believe the founder/CEO should also be Chair. “[] [Wilson] think[s] the Chair should be an independent director who [helps] the CEO manage the Board.